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Breakfast 101

ARTICLE BY MONICA CHEN & ASHLEY E. MENDEZ | THE SCIENCE ISSUE 2015

Was having a healthier year on your list of resolutions last week? Let Culinarian explain the importance of breakfast (and what to eat) in order to inspire you into starting your semester, and day, off on the right foot.

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You’ve created your exercise plan, organized your class schedule, and have job interviews lined up. You may think you have everything figured out for the new year, but maybe you forgot to schedule in breakfast. You always hear how important it is to eat breakfast, but with your busy schedule, is it really that necessary?

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Our metabolism slows during sleep. You should ideally eat within one hour after waking up to get your metabolism back up so you can tackle your packed schedule. Additionally, you will avoid unnecessary weight gain and sustain yourself mentally and physically throughout the day. Typical breakfast foods, such as pastries or cereals, aren’t the best meal options. Your body digests these simple carbohydrates quickly, leaving your stomach growling during class. As these carbohydrates break down, your sugar levels will rise dramatically. Not only does eating carb-filled food lead to empty stomachs, these foods also leave you feeling tired and unable to concentrate during the day.

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You may find it hard to stay away from that favorite cereal and pancake-stacks, but try to replace those temptations with a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt with fruit. If you’re still having sugar cravings, try putting a bit of cereal in your oatmeal or yogurt for a slightly healthier alternative. And don’t forget about your morning liquids! Water is just as important with your breakfast, as it helps excrete glucose. If you must have your cup of OJ or coffee, be sure to check the sugar content of your drinks and limit your consumption.

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Now that you know that you should prioritize your morning meals, get creative with some new breakfast recipes. Whether you like to meal prep or have quick options to enjoy on the go, Culinarian has got you covered!

Here is a list of a few links to some healthy recipes to get you excited to start the day:

Overnight oats: Just prepare the night before for a delicious, immediate breakfast!

Gingery Berry Oat Smoothie: Substitute the brown sugar for agave syrup for a low glycemic boost!

Weekend Poached Eggs: A carb-busting, vegetarian meal enjoyable for a lazy weekend morning!

Gluten Free Pancakes: If you can’t resist pancakes, try out this low-carb, gluten free alternative!

Zucchini Hashbrowns, Eggs, & Berry-Nana Smoothie: A healthy twist on a traditional breakfast!

Avocado Toast with Egg: So simple and delicious, you won’t believe you haven’t tried this before!

Mini Ham and Cheese Quinoa Cups: Gluten-free cups that you can save for later!

Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Try these 14 different recipes to make your yogurt more interesting!